As an Olympic gold medalist, Cheptegei’s initiative goals to advertise athletics in Uganda whereas supporting vital social and environmental causes.
The second version of the extremely anticipated Elgon Half Marathon, that includes world-renowned athlete Joshua Cheptegei, is about for November 2nd.
Organised by the Joshua Cheptegei Basis in partnership with the United Nations Improvement Programme (UNDP), this yr’s occasion carries the theme: “Working for Local weather Motion, Inclusive Financial Development, and the Elimination of Gender-Primarily based Violence (GBV).”
As an Olympic gold medalist, Cheptegei’s initiative goals to advertise athletics in Uganda whereas supporting vital social and environmental causes.
The marathon is not going to solely increase sports activities tourism within the scenic Elgon area but additionally promote neighborhood participation and environmental sustainability.
This yr’s marathon may even function a tree-planting drive, with 1,500 saplings supplied by the Nationwide Forestry Authority (NFA) and Uganda Airways.
Throughout a symbolic occasion at Courtroom View Resort, Benjamin Njia, second vp for Technical Affairs on the Uganda Athletics Federation, unveiled the marathon’s new routes.
The 20-kilometre route, ranging from Cricket Floor, will take runners by the realm’s gorgeous landscapes, whereas the 5km and 10km routes will start at Republic Avenue and cross landmarks just like the Mbale Resort Resort.
Njia emphasised that the marathon route has been licensed by the World Athletics Federation, making certain that document occasions will qualify athletes for skilled recognition.
He additionally introduced elevated prize cash for this yr’s race, encouraging extra participation.
By his basis’s consultant, Justin Jims Yeko, Cheptegei urged Ugandans and worldwide supporters to affix the occasion.
“Let’s run, stroll, or cycle collectively for a standard goal–promoting a more healthy way of life, constructing stronger communities, and securing a sustainable future. I invite our worldwide pals to expertise the heat and hospitality of Mbale,” Cheptegei stated.
Cheptegei additionally highlighted the marathon’s broader objectives: “We’re empowering ladies and youth, boosting native economies, and showcasing the great thing about the Elgon area.”
Lorna Pascqua Abur, UNDP’s Uganda Tourism Undertaking Officer, careworn the occasion’s significance in diversifying Uganda’s tourism choices by sports activities.
“For Uganda to stay aggressive as a nature-based vacation spot, we should diversify. Collaborating with world figures like Joshua Cheptegei helps us obtain this imaginative and prescient,” Abur remarked. She referred to as on locals to assist the marathon, envisioning it as a future worldwide draw.
Mbale metropolis authorities, represented by the mayors in absentia, urged residents to take part in massive numbers as hosts. Members are required to buy a marathon equipment, which prices Shs30,000 and features a vest, water bottle, and bag.
This occasion not solely emphasizes the worth of athletics but additionally demonstrates a dedication to sustainability and neighborhood growth, making the Elgon Half Marathon a big occasion for each native and worldwide stakeholders.